Senior Research Fellow (Adhesive Chemist)

The School of Materials Science & Engineering seeks a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all and recruit on the basis of merit, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.  MSE seeks to aggressively develop and commercialize adhesive and resin technologies based on NRF/CRP-funded project: Directed Energy Materials for Advanced Manufacturing.  This disrupting technology aims to retrofit induction technology for the manufacturing of sustainable composites and plastics in the industrial sectors of automotive, sports, and green energy.

We look for applicants who are highly motivated and can demonstrate initiative and prior experience leading a diverse technical team.  Serious applicants should submit a 1-page cover letter that briefly summarizes your professional background and competency of key responsibilities and qualification requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and design dual-cure, on-demand, and debonding liquid polymer resins.

• Identify and select monomers/additives for use in thermoset and thermoplastic composites.

• Formulate and measure adhesive viscoelastic properties of resin designed for automated manufacturing withing electronics and optolelectronics.

• Procure and assess cartridge packing equipment for robotic and automated dispensing.

• Manage and deliver project KPIs and objectives per grant management.

• Ensure milestone delivery per plan/schedule, manage/control project risks & mitigating actions

• Prepare/consolidate monthly and annual periodic reports.

• Manage project documentation, knowledge/data capture and reporting.

• Manage logistical issues and laboratory inventory.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety in all aspects of the research work.

Job Requirements:

• PhD in chemistry, materials science, or related engineering field from reputable university.

• Strong record (10+ years) of industrial experience designing, formulating, and evaluating resins, engineering adhesives employed in automated or electronics manufacturing.

• Industrial experience related to adhesive optimization, development, and or scale-up.

• Evidence of technical skills related to resin formulation development, including but not limited to shelf stability, cartridge packing, rheology, opto/electronics manufacturing is an advantage.

• Organic, adhesive, or polymer chemistry background related to acrylate, urethane, hot-melt, or epoxy thermoset resins is highly desired.

• Evidence of written and oral research outputs, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Minimum of 10 years of industrial and manufacturing experience.  

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with strong initiative.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.